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ICD-10 Coding for Bundle-Branch Block(I44.2, I45.2, I45.3, I44.7)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Bundle-Branch Block. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Left Bundle-Branch BlockRight Bundle-Branch BlockBifascicular Block

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Bundle-Branch Block

I44-I45Primary Range

Conduction disorders

This range includes all types of bundle-branch blocks and related conduction disorders.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
I44.2Left bundle-branch block (LBBB)Use when ECG confirms LBBB criteria and is documented in the patient's record.
  • QRS duration ≥120ms
  • Broad R wave in leads I and V6
  • ST-T discordance
I45.2Right bundle-branch block and left anterior fascicular blockUse when ECG shows RBBB with left anterior fascicular block.
  • rsR' pattern in V1
  • Left axis deviation
I45.3Right bundle-branch block and left posterior fascicular blockUse when ECG shows RBBB with left posterior fascicular block.
  • rsR' pattern in V1
  • Right axis deviation
I44.7Unspecified bundle-branch blockUse as interim code when specific bundle-branch block type is not yet determined.
  • Pending further diagnostic workup

Clinical Decision Support

Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for left bundle-branch block

Essential facts and insights about Bundle-Branch Block

The ICD-10 code for left bundle-branch block is I44.2, used when specific ECG criteria are documented.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for bundle-branch block

Left bundle-branch block (LBBB)
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • QRS duration ≥120ms with broad R wave in I/V6.

Applicable To

  • Complete left bundle-branch block

Excludes

  • Right bundle-branch block (I45.10)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • QRS duration ≥120ms
  • Broad R wave in leads I and V6
  • ST-T discordance

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly coding as unspecified when specific criteria are met.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies LBBB with ECG validation.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Heart failure, unspecified

I50.9
Use when LBBB is associated with heart failure.

Acute myocardial infarction, unspecified

I21.9
Use when bifascicular block is associated with an acute MI.

Old myocardial infarction

I25.2
Use when bifascicular block is related to a previous MI.

Bradycardia, unspecified

R00.1
Use when unspecified BBB is associated with bradycardia.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Right bundle-branch block (RBBB)

I45.10
Presence of rsR' pattern in V1 and slurred S wave in I and V6.

Right bundle-branch block and left posterior fascicular block

I45.3
Presence of right axis deviation.

Right bundle-branch block and left anterior fascicular block

I45.2
Presence of left axis deviation.

Left bundle-branch block

I44.2
Confirmed by specific ECG findings.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Bundle-Branch Block to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I44.2.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis., Regulatory: Increases audit risk., Financial: Potential for denied claims.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure ECG reports are attached to clinical notes., Train staff on documentation requirements.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to lower DRG assignment and reimbursement., Compliance: Increases risk of audit findings., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of clinical data.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure ECG findings are documented to support specific coding.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect sequencing can affect DRG and payment., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Impacts clinical data integrity.

Mitigation Strategy

Sequence acute MI code before BBB code.

Impact

Use of unspecified codes when specific criteria are met.

Mitigation Strategy

Regular audits and coder education.

Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Bundle-Branch Block, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Bundle-Branch Block

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Bundle-Branch Block. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Acute presentation with new LBBB

Specialty: Cardiology

Required Elements

  • Patient demographics
  • Presenting symptoms
  • ECG findings
  • Clinical correlation
  • Underlying conditions

Example Documentation

Patient presents with acute chest pain. ECG shows new LBBB with QRS duration of 134ms. History of CAD. Echo shows EF 35%.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
ECG abnormal.
Good Documentation Example
ECG shows new LBBB with QRS 134ms, notched S in V4-V6.
Explanation
The good example provides specific ECG findings necessary for accurate coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Bundle-Branch Block? Ask your questions below.

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